Top critical review

Court & Spark was something of a departure for Joni with the dominant melodic style being jazz rather than folk. It's still a singer-songwriter album of sorts and, though it hasn't dated well musically or lyrically, still offers rewards for patient listeners.Like most of Mitchell's music, C&S is not full of obvious hooklines and choruses and takes a few listens to be appreciated. Among the more immediate songs are the three hits - Help Me, Raised On Robbery and Free Man In Paris. Help Me is an elegant, jazzy ballad making good use of the full 12 notes whereas ROR is an irresistible combination of doo-wop and rock and one of Joni's most commercial recordings. Free Man In Paris is catchy sophisticated pop with lyrics in sympathy with Joni's flustered record company boss David Geffen, constantly besieged by his egotistical artists. Can you imagine anyone writing a song in sympathy with the plight of a recording executive today?Another highlight of the album is the title track, more stripped down to piano and vocal than most of the other music here. Piano however remains the dominant instrument although there is good, often sparse use of electric guitar and brass in places. This early 70s jazz-rock style has not dated very well. Also badly dated are Joni's lyrics about the relationships of her rich, artistic friends - Geffen aside, it's difficult to feel very sympathetic to most of the characters depicted here.Although now dated Court Of Spark is excellent in places and will reward the patient listener.

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I was aware of Joni Mitchell back in the 70s but was more into Yes and Genesis and The Stones etc. I'm not impressed with the state of music in the present day so I'm catching up with older, quality sounds,

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Absolutely great album. I have had the CD from Amazon for years. It wasn't available on digital as well when I bought the CD. Getting it to my devices was easier than it ever has been for me this time for some reason. It has usually been really difficult.

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My original Album, background to my life way back was owned, played and played but went a wall - this restored lost memories. Wonderful songs by an amazingly inventive , creative woman. Hope you get better soon, Joni.